Please advice....

[chunchrik]

Hi folks,

Got some silly questions -

I'm hoping to tour Europe (starting in mid-July) for a month- will be sticking mostly to country roads with an occasional visit to a bigger city/town and will be wild camping most of the time or at a campsite (to do laundry etc.)

Tentative Route will be - Calais > Benelux (Ardennes) > Germany (Black Forest) > Switzerland & Austria (Alps) > Italy (Tuscany) > France (Provence) > N. Spain(Pyrenees) and Bordeaux & back

I apologies if these questions have been covered before, but I would appreciated your advice on following -

In past I've only done weekend trip to Europe/in UK, where, I just carried a backpack tied to the seat and stayed in B&Bs etc.
So for a month long trip, I'm planning to buy the canvas panniers from Silverman's -
It's the first time using the panniers and even though, all my valuables will be in a rucksack which I'll be carrying with me.... I'm wondering, what happens when I have to leave the bike? i.e. stop to go hiking / sight-seeing / coffee shop / toilets etc.
How does one protect the luggage etc. while touring / or at a campsite?
Do people tend to leave the panniers on the bike or take them with them?
Would you recommend I invest in Pacsafe protector for the panniers / Are they worth it?

I'm riding Bonneville EFI '07 - and have got tube tyres - Any recommendations on a light-weight pump and repair kit in case of puncture?
I've read about the electrical pumps in other discussions - but I'm not sure where would I get the power from (esp. if I get one in middle of nowhere) ?
Is there a way I can fit a Cigarette Socket thingy on my bike (like the ones they have in cars) ? If yes, any ideas where can I get it sorted in London?

Wild Camping - I know it's not legal in some most European countries, but people still do it - away from civilisation, discreetly…and even though I'll only be staying one night at a place (just to sleep) - I understand it's a bit risky! (but that’s the fun of it, hence, I want to indulge ) Has anyone ever had a bad experience in Europe …Any advice - for first timer?

Thanks!

Rv